Examination Prelude

A few days had passed since the academy exam trials, and I must admit that I've been feeling completely worn out during these past few days. It's surprising how much books have become my refuge at this point in my life. Considering all that's been happening, I suppose it's my way of finding comfort and solace.

Isn't that right, Inzaghi? I asked, gently petting him on the front of his head. His ears moved side to side, showing his approval of my strokes.

It's been some time since I discovered that Inzaghi is actually a dragon with the ability to shapeshift into any creature of his liking. Not me, of course! Ever since I found him in that carriage after Ezekiel and I defeated those evil bandits, I've noticed his extraordinary abilities.

They called themselves the worshipers of Fate Salvation, a name so absurd and stupid that Ezekiel couldn't stop making jokes about them for the whole day. But those were the days, huh? Now, I hope that moving here to get the proper education I need will be better than living back in the old village.

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Ezekiel!

Ezeeeeekiel! Wake Up!

"Ezekiel, you'll be late for your bestowal ceremony!" A familiar voice echoed through the academy dorms, cutting through the early morning haze.

'HUH whaaa, what time is it now? ' Ezekiel rubbed his eyes, trying to keep himself up from falling back into bed once again.

"What time... WHAT TIME? WHAT TIMEEEEE? YOU IDIOT THIS IS THE FIFTH TIME YOU'VE OVERSLEPT FOR ANOTHER IMPORTANT ACADEMIC BESTOWAL AGAIN!"

Ezekiel's roommate and close friend, Cedric, was standing over him with a mix of annoyance and concern. Cedric had always been the pragmatic and organized one, while Ezekiel, despite his brilliance, had a habit of losing track of time.

"Relax, Cedric, we've got time..." Ezekiel said groggily, glancing at the clock on his bedside table. To his horror, the digital numbers displayed 8:50 am, and the bestowal ceremony was set to begin at 9:00 am sharp.

"You've got to be kidding me, Zeke!" Cedric exclaimed, exasperated. "This is your big day as the youngest Student Council President in the academy's history, and you're going to miss it because you overslept?"

Ezekiel's eyes widened in panic as the reality of the situation hit him. He couldn't afford to be late for his own bestowal ceremony, especially not today.

With a burst of adrenaline, he threw the clock at Cedric creating another dent in the wall as he dodged it, and jumped out of bed, not even bothering to change out of his rumpled pyjamas. He stumbled over scattered books and clothes on the dorm room floor, searching for his School Uniform.

"WHAT WAS THAT FOR?" Cedric was fuming after being thrown another clock at him once again.

"Out of my way, Cedric! I don't have time for your scolding. I need to get to the Presentation Hall, NOW!" Ezekiel shouted, his heart racing with both excitement and dread.

Cedric, though still annoyed, knew better than to waste any more time. He quickly handed Ezekiel a neatly pressed set of School Uniform and shoes, which he had prepared in advance, anticipating such a situation.

"Get dressed, Zeke. I'll inform the others that you're on your way," Cedric said, trying to keep his composure despite the urgency of the situation.

Ezekiel swiftly changed into his School uniform, his hands trembling slightly with nerves and excitement. He fastened the intricate golden buttons of his jacket and adjusted his tie, all the while envisioning the moment he would step on stage to accept the prestigious title of Student Council President.

With Cedric right behind him, Ezekiel dashed through the academy dorms and down the bustling hallways. Students and teachers alike gave him curious glances, well aware of the significance of this day.

As they reached the Presentation Hall, the anticipation in the air was discernible. The entrance was adorned with colourful banners and shimmering decorations, a testament to the joyous occasion.

Ezekiel's heart pounded with a mix of anxiety and determination. He straightened his posture, a resolve settling over him. He couldn't afford to let his tardiness overshadow this crucial event. With Cedric by his side, Ezekiel took a deep breath and entered the back entrance of the hall.

To his relief, the ceremony hadn't started yet. The student council members were gathered backstage, waiting for his arrival. The Headmaster Galahad, along with the academy staff, looked at Ezekiel with a mixture of amusement and understanding.

"Ah, Ezekiel, glad you could join us," the Headmaster said with a gentle smile. "Your reputation for brilliance and resourcefulness precedes you, but punctuality seems to be a challenge."

Ezekiel blushed, his cheeks turning a faint shade of pink, but he managed a sheepish smile. "My apologies, Headmaster. It won't happen again."

"See that it doesn't," the Headmaster replied with a wink, lightening the moment with his playful demeanour.

As Galahad took the stage, he gave an informative introduction to the crowd and academy students.

"What took you so long Zeke?" Matteo teased, a wide grin on his face. "Man, you've changed a lot since coming to this academy. You truly are my cousin." He put his hand on Ezekiel's shoulder, teasing him affectionately.

"It seems I've won the bet once again," Vanessa chimed in, her expression as cold as ice, perfectly embodying her nickname, the "ice queen." "I would like my cold noodles with dressing tomorrow~" Her voice remained unchanging, just like her expression, adding to her mystifying beauty.

"Darn it, Ezekiel, why can't you be early for once? Vanessa keeps taking my FOOD off me!" Celestina playfully pouted, looking at Ezekiel with a hint of hope.

"Well, it's better than having notes taken off you. I'm currently 0 - 35 in gambling against Vanessa," Alonzo added, admitting defeat with a good-natured chuckle.

"What can I say? I guess I'm a fifty-fifty chance upon arrival," Ezekiel shrugged, his carefree attitude on full display.

Following him, Cedric and Rex arrived on the scene.

"Luckily, Rex got here 5 minutes before you did," Cedric grumbled, still a bit irritated at the alarm clock incident.

Rex, despite his tired demeanour, managed to offer his congratulations, "Hey Zeke, congrats on becoming the president. I just found out today it was you." His voice sounded sleepy, but the pride in his tone was evident.

Celestina intervened, sensing the time was right, "Hush, I think it's time he calls us out onto the stage."

As Galahad's speech toward the students and teachers came to an end, he called upon the student council board, signalling the beginning of the bestowal ceremony. The moment had finally arrived, and Ezekiel felt a mix of nerves and excitement as he prepared to take on his new role as the student council president.

"I'd like to call the Student Council Leadership onto the stage now for the unveiling of our new president. Can: Vanessa, Celestina, Cedric, Alonzo, and Rex come and give the six offerings."

The Student Council board walks upon the stage grabbing the 6 items for the student council president. Vanessa holds the candle of hope, Celestina holds the golden aiguillette, Cedric holds the candle of life, Alonzo holds the candle of diligence and Rex holds the Golden badge symbolising the official student council president certificate.

Ezekiel approaches the stage where the student council board lines up in front of him

"First, the Candle of Diligence stands as a testament to our unyielding commitment to knowledge and growth. It embodies the countless hours of study, practice, and dedication that have brought us to this moment. As we light this candle, let it remind us of the value of hard work and the determination to overcome any obstacle in our pursuit of mastery."

Ezekiel Lights the first and Alonzo places the candle onto the stand that holds the candle in the centre of the stage.

"Next, the Candle of Life represents the precious gift that courses through our veins, granting us the power to wield magic and shape the world around us. With each flicker of this flame, we celebrate the vitality that courses through us, connecting us to the very essence of existence. Let it remind us of the responsibility we hold to use our magic wisely and for the betterment of all."

Ezekiel lights the second candle and Cedric places the candle onto its holder.

"The Candle of Hope radiates a beacon of light in the darkest of times. It symbolizes the resilience of the human spirit and the belief in a brighter future. As we ignite this flame, let it fill our hearts with optimism and inspiration, guiding us through challenges and uncertainties. May it serve as a reminder that hope is a powerful force that can overcome any adversity."

Ezekiel lights the third candle as Vanessa places it onto the holder as Cedric, Alonzo and Vanessa line up in front of the candle's bow and leaves the stage and into their designated seating area.

As the three candles now cast their warm glow upon the stage, the atmosphere in the hall seemed to shift with a renewed sense of purpose and unity.

Celestina followed suit, holding the golden aiguillette, a distinctive mark of leadership and honour. She spoke with conviction, "Ezekiel, this aiguillette represents the weight of your new role. Let it remind you of the trust and confidence the academy has placed in you. Wear it with pride, for it signifies not only your authority but also your responsibility to serve and protect the interests of your fellow students."

Ezekiel's smiled with gratitude as he nodded, acknowledging the words of his friends and council members. he accepted his Aiguillette and wore it with pride.

As Rex stepped forward, presenting the golden badge, he spoke with a smile, "Ezekiel, this badge officially marks you as the Student Council President, the youngest to ever hold this honourable position in our academy's history. Wear it with humility, for it is a symbol of your service to our community, and may it remind you of the friendships and camaraderie that support you on this noble path."

Ezekiel's felt a deep sense of responsibility. As he placed the badge on his uniform, he felt a surge of determination to lead with integrity and to be the voice of his fellow students.

With the ceremonial offerings complete, the student council members returned to their seats, leaving Ezekiel standing alone on the stage, surrounded by the flickering flames of Diligence, Life, and Hope.

"Now from the speech for your new Student Council President" Galahad had finished his presentation for Ezekiel and now it was time for him to start his first speech as the student council president

Ezekiel took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment upon his shoulders. The eyes of the entire academy were fixed upon him, and he knew that this speech would set the tone for his entire term as president. With Cedric, Rex, and the rest of the student council members watching, he felt like he couldn't give just a half-assed speech like he usually would.

"Good morning, Headmaster Galahad, distinguished faculty, fellow students, and esteemed guests," Ezekiel began, his voice projecting clearly across the hall. "Today marks a momentous occasion for all of us. As I stand before you as the new Student Council President, I am humbled and honoured by the trust you have placed in me."

He paused for a moment, taking in the encouraging smiles and nods from his friends and teachers. "During my time here at the academy, I have witnessed the remarkable talent, dedication, and potential that exists within each and every one of us. It is this collective power that has driven us to become better mages, scholars, and individuals."

"Our academy is not just a place of learning; it is a community that fosters growth, nurtures dreams, and encourages us to push beyond our limits. As your president, my foremost goal is to strengthen this sense of unity and create an environment where every mage feels valued and empowered to pursue their aspirations."

Ezekiel's eyes scanned the faces of his peers, and he could sense the anticipation in the air. "Together, we will embrace the spirit of Diligence, for it is through hard work, dedication, and a thirst for knowledge that we will achieve greatness. As mages, we hold the power to shape the world around us, and I believe that with unity and determination, we can make a profound impact on our academy and the wider realm."

"We will embrace the vitality of Life, celebrating the magic within ourselves and each other. Let us support and uplift one another, for a true community thrives on mutual respect and compassion. Each individual brings unique strengths to our academy, and by recognizing and nurturing these strengths, we will collectively reach new heights."

Ezekiel's gaze shifted to the Candle of Hope, its flame dancing with a sense of promise. "In times of challenge and uncertainty, we will look to the flame of Hope. Together, we will face obstacles head-on, knowing that even in the darkest of moments, a flicker of hope can guide us towards a brighter future."

"With the guidance of our esteemed teachers and the unwavering support of our friends and family, I am confident that we can overcome any adversity. Our academy is not just a place of magical study but a sanctuary of growth, camaraderie, and endless possibilities."

Ezekiel felt the energy in the room, a palpable sense of unity and determination radiating from the audience. "As your president, I promise to listen to your concerns, champion your ideas, and serve as a bridge between the student body and the academy's administration. Together, we will embark on a journey of progress, innovation, and inclusivity."

"With the Candle of Diligence, Life, and Hope as our guiding beacons, I invite you all to join hands and embark on this path of transformation. Let us work together to create an academy that embraces diversity, empowers growth, and leaves a legacy that will inspire generations to come."

Ezekiel's speech was met with enthusiastic applause, and the hall echoed with cheers of support. as the prestigious title was officially conferred upon Ezekiel. He stepped down from the stage, where the principal dismissed everyone to resume classes.

The student council applauded Ezekiel for having a decent speech for once, and they all left to go back to class.

"Cedric, did you do that favour I asked of you?" Ezekiel said with a hint of anticipation.

"To check for a guy named Jin in the trial exam yesterday? Well, yeah. He didn't look out of the ordinary in my eyes. Judging by his mana reserves, he seems to have below the average of what an academic mage here has, and to add on, he looks like one of those pretty boy commoners that are full of themselves." Cedric opened fire with his opinion of Jin.

Ezekiel sighed, feeling a little disappointed. "I know Jin can be a bit proud, but he's an old friend of mine. I haven't seen him in a while, that's all. Do you have his results of whether he passed or not?"

"Yeah, but it seems he barely just passed both practical and theory exams. 56% for theory and 51% for practical." Cedric showed a copy of the student acceptant results to Ezekiel.

"It's interesting to me that Jin barely passed for both since we were basically equal in terms of strength, but I still don't believe the result for the practical. There must've been something wrong." Ezekiel thought to himself, his brow furrowing in concern.

"Oh well, let's just see what class he places himself in for this year, 'cause it gets pretty lonely being in the honorary class for Elemental Arts and Combat Arts with just Rex and me." Ezekiel sighed, feeling a mix of excitement and a tinge of loneliness.

"You expect too much for a commoner, Ezekiel... Actually, this is the first time I've heard you praise someone around our age."

"Don't worry. We will just have to wait and see," Ezekiel said, trying to sound optimistic, but his disappointment still lingered.